Driving emergencies can happen to anyone, in any type of car. Here’s what to do if a worst- case scenario happens.

* Stuck accelerator

Brake! In a panic, it’s easy to think that if your accelerator won’t respond, your brakes won’t — but chances are, they will.

Take the car out of gear. Select neutral so power is no longer being fed to the wheels. The car will keep going because of inertia, but will slow down.

Steer! Look for somewhere to stop safely, indicate and pull over.

* Failed brakes

Where and when your brakes fail dictates how much of a problem you’ll face. You’ll have a better chance if you stay back from other traffic and brake early when approaching junctions or stop lights in your normal driving. You’re less likely to have a fender bender if the person in front stops suddenly, too.

If your brakes do fail, get off the gas and keep pumping the brakes in case they do bite.

Use the gearlever to change down the gears­ — whether you have auto or stick shift. Engine braking will slow you down.

Steer! Concentrate on avoiding other cars or obstacles, flash your lights and use your horn. Look for somewhere safe to pull off. Soft ground or an upward incline will slow you down quicker.

* Blow out

Remember to check the condition of your tires regularly, making sure there are no nails or sharp stones stuck in the treads. Check the air pressure, too.

Steer! Having a tire blow is a scary thing, but you’ll still have three tires on the road, so concentrate on keeping straight.

Drive normally, but signal, slow down and pull over as soon as you can. Don’t try and limp home. It will cost more to fix if you’ve been driving on the metal rim and have to replace the wheel as well.